So, while the Yanai Family mourns the loss of the well-loved Masaki, they continue to worry about his father, Takayuki. Best reports say that he remains in a critical condition tonight.
Today, we spoke with Senate President Lee Mark Chang from Chon Saan who was Takayuki's first employer when he came here about 15 years ago.
Chang told us that this tragedy has been visited upon one of the humblest families he knows:
Hon. Lee Mark Chang - Friend to the Yanai Family
"I knew the Yanai family since they came to Belize, at I think about 14-15 years ago. The family is very religious, and they came to do volunteer work in Belize, and just to work on the side. So, they've been doing those volunteer work from as far as I know, from ever since."
Reporter
"And they stayed."
Hon. Lee Mark Chang
"They stayed when Mr. Yanai was looking for a job at that time, because of the language barrier,with most of the hotels, it was difficult for him to secure a job. So but, he came to see me, and we managed to work something out, and we got his work papers, and so, he was working for me for about 7 years. He was working for Chon Saan."
Reporter
"He's a chef by profession?"
Hon. Lee Mark Chang
"He's an international chef, and also a Japanese chef. So, he was the one who was dealing withall the Japanese food for us here at Chon Saan."
Reporter
"What was the interactions like between you, him and other workers of yours?"
Hon. Lee Mark Chang
"I can't complain. Mr. Yanai and his family are the most humble family you could ever meet in Belize. They're very hard working, very respectful, very modest, they get the job done. And of course, you know, they're here on their volunteer basis."
Reporter
"Have you had any kind of interactions with young Mr. Masaki?"
Hon. Lee Mark Chang
"Yes, I watch him grow up. Actually, I watch the 2 brothers and the sister grew up. They came from a very young age to Belize, also very respectful, hardworking. The young man who has passed was in the restaurant helping the father to take care of the business. I must also mentioned that I spoke with the Commissioner of Police, a short while ago, to see if there was any leads, or updates. And presently, I was told there is none, but I was told that there are some concerned citizens who have come and pooled some money together. And I think there is a $7,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of the murderers."
As noted in the interview, there is a cash reward for information leading to the arrest of the shooters
Police Commissioner Chester Williams made a post on his personal Facebook page, which says, quote, Police have not been able to get any good lead as witnesses are being very tight lipped. In light of this, the police department in collaboration with the business community is offering a reward of $7,000.00 for information leading to the arrest of those responsible. Anyone wish to offer any information can inbox or contact me on 610-5716. Any information volunteered will be kept strictly confidential." End quote.
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